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    • State News
      GreenbrierJournal

      Gov. Justice issues State of Preparedness for 22 counties ahead of Hurricane Helene

      GreenbrierJournal

      Ahead of heavy rainfall and high winds expected from the remnants of Hurricane Helene, Gov. Jim Justice issued a State of Preparedness today for 22 West Virginia counties.  Click here to view State of Preparedness "While this weather may help with issues related to our ongoing drought, too much could lead to big problems like flooding and power outages," Gov. Justice said. "That's why I'm declaring this State of Preparedness—to ensure our state agencies are ready. We need the rainfall, but we also need to use common sense when it comes to the hazardous weather. Please use extreme caution as we deal with the aftermath of this hurricane."

      The State of Preparedness allows the West Virginia Emergency Management Division (WVEMD) to posture personnel and resources for quick response to any emergency that may develop. Coordinating agencies have been placed on standby to report to the State Emergency Operations Center should the need arise.

      Gov. Justice and the WVEMD ask all West Virginians to remain attentive to weather conditions through local media reports and follow any instructions issued by emergency officials.  

      Check National Weather Service Watches, Warnings or Advisories for all areas of West Virginia here: National Weather Service Charleston

      National Weather Service Baltimore/Washington (Eastern Panhandle)

      National Weather Service Blacksburg (Southeast WV)

      National Weather Service Pittsburgh (Northern Panhandle)
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    • Business News
      GreenbrierJournal

      Vendors Announced for Carnegie Hall’s Taste of Our Towns

      GreenbrierJournal

      The delicious fundraiser for Carnegie Hall, Taste Of Our Towns (TOOT), will take place on Saturday, October 12, from 12 to 8 p.m. Thousands of residents and visitors from across the region gather on the streets of historic downtown Lewisburg to sample delicious food from local restaurants, civic clubs, and nonprofit organizations.  
      This year, TOOT will feature over 30 food/drink vendors and close to 20 vending and demonstrating artists. Stay tuned for more information on vending locations and items.
      2024 TOOT Vendors include Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate Central, Kitchen 304, Davis Stuart Culinary, Blackwell's Catering, Child & Youth Advocacy Center, The Dawg House, Sixpence Pizza, The Twist, Fairway Fork, The Greenbrier, Greenbrier Sporting Club, Aviagen Turkeys, The Chocolate Lady, The French Goat, CAMC Greenbrier Valley Medical Center, Greenbrier Valley Childrens' Home, Resurrecting Praise Community Choir, New River Hospitality, Hawk Knob Cidery, The Schoolhouse Hotel,  Smooth Ambler, Wooton, Davis, Hussell & Johnson PLLC, Go Duck Media, Country Roads Beer Company, The Humble Tomato, Del Sol Cantina, Max on Main, Greenbrier Valley Aquatic Center, Mill Creek Homestyle Bakery, Deez Eatz, Yarid's, The Twisted Chef, Across the Board, Manic Espresso, Greenbrier Humane Society, Briergarten, and The Wild Bean.
      Carnegie Hall Teaching Artist exhibits and demonstration will include Jessie Thornton, Kelsie Tyson, Peggy Owens, Sean O’Connell, Kathy Talley, West Virginia Woodturners Association, Theresa Filzen, Greenbrier Artists, Jennifer Spencer, Debbie Rapp, Thomas Ruggiero, Luke Davis, Connie Gottshall, Amie Durrman, Lee Street Studios, Karen Leland, Sandra Schmocker, and Linda Zimmer.
      The 2024 Taste of Our Town (TOOT) Title Sponsor is The Schoolhouse Hotel. The 2024 TOOT Beer Garden Sponsor is The American Beer Company. 
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    • Education News
      GreenbrierJournal

      Taste of Our Towns Features Carnegie Hall Teaching Artist

      GreenbrierJournal

      Carnegie Hall’s 38th Taste of Our Towns (TOOT) fundraiser is quickly approaching. The festival is scheduled for Saturday, October 12, from 12 – 4 p.m. in downtown Lewisburg, West Virginia. This year, Carnegie Hall’s Teaching Artist will be spread throughout the festival alongside the food vendors with exhibits and demonstrations.
      “In the last two years, we introduced artist demonstrations and vendor tents in an “Art Block” on Church Street to showcase a selection of our our teaching artists and to really let the community know more about the different kinds of family friendly programming we offer in our classes and workshops” states Education Director Harmony Flora. “Now we want to spread that fun, creative energy to the whole festival,” she adds.
      The newly integrated Art Block will feature multiple artist demonstrations in three locations throughout the day, including pottery wheel demos by Sean O’Connell and Kelsie Tyson, kids’ clay hand-building with Amie Durrman, woodturning projects by the WVWA, leather tooling by Luke Davis, basket weaving by Kathy Talley and loom weaving by the Fiber Arts Network, wool felting by Debbie Rapp, glass mosaic design by Peggy Owens, watercolor painting by Jeanne Brenneman, woodburning home décor by Jennifer Spencer, printmaking with Thomas Ruggiero, and jewelry making with Connie Gottshall.
      This year’s Art Block vendors include Jessie Thornton (photo prints), Kelsie Tyson (ceramics), Peggy Owens (glass mosaics), Luke Davis (leather goods), Connie Gottshall (custom jewelry), Kathy Talley (heirloom baskets), Theresa Filzen (stained glass), Greenbrier Artists (miniature paintings and prints), Sean O’Connell (mugs and vases), Jennifer Spencer (wood burn patterned home decor), Debbie Rapp (wool fibers), Thomas Ruggiero (prints), and the West Virginia Woodturners Association (WVWA) (wooden bowls/pens/ornaments).
      The Kids’ Zone will also feature special live performances of a marionette circus presented by performance artist Linda Zimmer, free, fall themed needle felting projects with Karen Leland and two separate coloring-book style kid’s murals created by Sandra Schmocker.
      The 2024 Taste of Our Town (TOOT) Title Sponsor is The Schoolhouse Hotel. The 2024 TOOT Beer Garden Sponsor is The American Beer Company.
      For more information, please visit
      www.carnegiehallwv.org
      or call (304) 645-7917.
      Read more...

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    • Entertainment News
      GreenbrierJournal

      What’s New for Carnegie Hall’s Taste of Our Towns

      GreenbrierJournal

      Carnegie Hall’s Taste Of Our Towns (TOOT) will take over downtown Lewisburg for the 38th time on Saturday, October 12, from 12 to 8 p.m. Year after year thousands of food lovers attend to get a taste of the culinary delights made in the Greenbrier Valley and surrounding area. This year’s fundraiser will not only feature great food but will also introduce some new twists. 
      The biggest change this year is that patrons will not need tokens or tickets. Vendors will set their own prices and payment options and will keep 100% of their sales. “Eliminating tickets and tokens has given our vendors greater flexibility and will keep festival attendees from spending time out of their day waiting in a ticket booth line,” states Carnegie Hall Development Associate Kit Lindsey. “People are excited about no tickets or tokens!”
      Also new is the time of the event. This year TOOT will begin at 12 p.m. (noon) and conclude at 4 p.m.  
      This year will also include a TOOT Afterparty from 4 – 8 p.m. on Church Street. The Davisson Brothers Band will take the stage on Church Street at 6 p.m., preceded by a local opener beginning at 5 p.m. Food trucks will be set up until 8 p.m. 
      TOOT will also see an expansion of the Kids’ Zone, which will move to North Court Street. Activities will include a hayride, bounce slide, face painting, duck pond, needle felting, mural painting, marionette shows, and more. The bounce slide will require a $5 wrist band.
      Carnegie Hall Teaching Artist will integrate with the food vendors. Exhibits and demonstrations will be spread throughout downtown Lewisburg. Participating artists will include Jessie Thornton, Kelsie Tyson, Peggy Owens, Sean O’Connell, Kathy Talley, West Virginia Woodturners Association, Theresa Filzen, Greenbrier Artists, Jennifer Spencer, Debbie Rapp, Thomas Ruggiero, Luke Davis, Connie Gottshall, Amie Durrman, Lee Street Studios, Karen Leland, Sandra Schmocker, and Linda Zimmer.
      This year will see more food trucks and pop-ups. Those vendors will include Kitchen 304, The Twist, Fairway Fork, New River Community & Technical College, Smooth Ambler Spirits, Sixpence Pizza, Deez Eatz, and The Twisted Chef.
      There will also be a few location updates. The Greenbrier Resort and The Sporting Club will return to South Court Street. Carnegie Hall’s Information Booth will be in front of Experience Greenbrier Valley.
      The 2024 Taste of Our Town (TOOT) Title Sponsor is The Schoolhouse Hotel. The 2024 TOOT Beer Garden Sponsor is The American Beer Company. 
      For more information contact Carnegie Hall Development Manager Kit LIndsey at 304-645-7917 or email [email protected].
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    • Entertainment News
      GreenbrierJournal

      TOOT Kids’ Zone Features Hayride, Bouncy Slide, and More

      GreenbrierJournal

      Carnegie Hall’s 38th Taste of Our Towns (TOOT) fundraiser will feature an expanded Kids’ Zone to entertain children during the four-hour event. Scheduled for Saturday, October 12, from 12 – 4 p.m., in downtown Lewisburg, West Virginia, the TOOT festival showcases delicious food/drinks, music, street performers, art demonstrations, and much more.
      The Kids’ Zone will be located on North Court Street, with hayrides starting in front of the Greenbrier County Courthouse (GCC). All activities are free for all ages except for the bouncy slide, which requires a $5 wristband.  Wristbands may be purchased at the Carnegie Hall Information Booth (located in front of Experience Greenbrier Valley). Wristbands allow unlimited turns. The bounce slide is provided by West Virginia Inflatables.
      The hayrides will be offered by Spring Creek Contractors and be available every 15 to 20 minutes in front of the GCC on North Court Street (just past the Kids’ Zone).  The rides are free to all ages and no alcohol is permitted. Children under the age of 10 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
      The Kids’ Zone will also feature a live Marionette Circus presented by performance artist Linda Zimmer, a needle felting station with Karen Leland, and a live mural painting experience with two separate coloring-book style designs created by artist Sandra Schmocker. The Kids’ Zone will also include face painting, duck pond with prizes for all ages, a bubble machine and more. 
      Families are encouraged to stop by and enjoy the festivities.
      The 2024 Taste of Our Town (TOOT) Title Sponsor is The Schoolhouse Hotel. The 2024 TOOT Beer Garden Sponsor is The American Beer Company. 
      For more information, please visit www.carnegiehallwv.org or call (304) 645-7917.
      Read more...

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    • Health News
      GreenbrierJournal

      West Virginia Department of Health Warns Residents of Increased Bee Stings

      GreenbrierJournal

      The West Virginia Department of Health is warning residents of a rise in emergency room visits related to bee stings, which have increased significantly compared to last year. With the transition into fall, officials are urging residents to remain vigilant as wasps, including yellow jackets and hornets, become more aggressive, a trait that is believed to have been made worse by recent drought conditions.
        Department of Health Secretary Sherri Young, DO, MBA, FAAFP states, “The safety of our community is our top priority. We want people outside enjoying these last few weeks of nice weather; however, we want them to do so securely. Take the extra precautions to ensure you and your family are protected from bees and wasps, and make sure you know how to react in the event someone is stung.”  
        As the West Virginia state public health entomologist Eric Dotseth notes, “Yellow jacket wasps are particularly aggressive at this time of year. With the current environmental conditions, including low precipitation affecting flowering plants, these wasps are in search of food, leading to increased encounters with humans.”
        Dotseth further explains that as summer ends and autumn begins yellow jackets typically seek out sugary food sources following the diminishment of their natural prey. They are frequently found near garbage containers and recycling bins, especially those with residue from sugary drinks. However, in times of drought they are known to become aggressive, swarming into yards and other areas as they search for food and water.   Data from local emergency medical services indicates a substantial rise in bee and wasp sting cases in 2024 compared to 2023; however, comprehensive annual data on yellow jacket activity remains scarce, making it challenging to monitor trends accurately.
        Bee stings often present a range of symptoms, some more serious than others. For this reason, it is important to be aware of the effects of a bee sting reaction.
        Mild to moderate reactions usually involve localized pain and swelling, whereas a moderate allergic reaction may cause symptoms like hives and redness. These symptoms can usually be treated at home with over-the counter medications. A severe reaction, also known as anaphylaxis, is a potentially life-threatening emergency and requires immediate attention. Anaphylaxis may cause symptoms such as difficulty breathing; nausea and vomiting; dizziness; rapid heartbeat; fainting and loss of consciousness; swelling of the face, throat, and tongue; or pale or flushed skin. Those who present this type of reaction to bee stings may be prescribed an epinephrine auto-injector, also known as an Epi-Pen, by their doctor, which will need to be carried with them at all times. 
        To help avoid stings, residents are advised to take the following precautions:  Keep food and drinks covered when outdoors. Dispose of garbage properly and promptly. Avoid attracting bees (don’t wear shiny objects, dark bright colors, and floral patterns, or strong scents like perfume and aftershave). Stay calm and move away slowly if encountering a wasp. Wear protective clothing, especially when using any machinery that produces sound vibrations or loud noises. If you experience any of the above symptoms related to anaphylaxis following a bee sting, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. 
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    • Local News
      GreenbrierJournal

      TOOT to Feature 2nd Annual "All Things Pumpkin" Culinary Contest

      GreenbrierJournal

      The 2nd Annual All Things Pumpkin Culinary Contest will take place at Experience Greenbrier Valley (formerly the Greenbrier Valley Convention and Visitors Bureau) during Taste Of Our Towns (TOOT) on Saturday, October 12, at 2 p.m. 
      Enter your best sweet or savory pumpkin recipe and be the second winner in the annual Carnegie Hall All Things Pumpkin Contest. The best recipe winner will receive a $200 cash prize, bragging rights for the whole year, and the Golden Pumpkin Award, a custom-made one-of-a-kind art piece created by a different Carnegie Hall Teaching Artist each year. This year’s award is a beautiful stained-glass window hanging created by Glasswerks artist Lynda Weischowsky. 
      Entries must allow for 12 tastings, be pre-registered by Thursday, October 10th, and delivered to Experience Greenbrier Valley by 1:30 p.m. on Saturday October 12. Judging will occur at 2 p.m. and conclude with a live awards presentation.
      Kasadi Shock was the 2023 Golden Pumpkin Award Winner. Her following winning submission was adapted from a recipe by Carrie Walder, Md.
      Whipped Pumpkin Feta Dip 
      Approx. 8 oz block of feta cheese, drained from brine 
      1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt 
      1 cup canned pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
      1-2 Tbsp honey 
      1 tsp dried thyme 
      Black pepper 
      Fresh thyme 
      Chopped walnuts 
      Extra honey drizzle
      Crusty, toasted bread (like sourdough or baguette)
      Instructions
      Make whipped feta by adding the feta cheese and Greek yogurt to a food processor. Blend ingredients together for a few minutes until smooth, scraping down with a spatula as needed.
      Add pumpkin puree, 1 or 2 Tbsps. of honey (depending on desired sweetness), thyme, and a few cracks of black pepper to the food processor. Blend again until all ingredients are combined. Transfer whipped feta to the fridge and chill (covered) for 30-60 minutes. This is necessary to harden and chill the dip. 
      When you're ready to serve this recipe, transfer the whipped feta to a large bowl. Garnish with a handful of chopped walnuts (optional), a generous sprinkle of fresh thyme, an extra drizzle of honey, and more pepper. Serve with crusty/toasted bread or crackers for dipping. 
      Entry fee is $13. To register or for more information visit carnegiehallwv.org/all-things-pumpkin-culinary-contest.
      For more information on Carnegie Hall-O-Ween or for a complete list of classes and workshops and to enroll visit carnegiehallwv.org/classes-and-workshops or pick up a Classes & Workshops brochure at 611 Church Street, Lewisburg, West Virginia.
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    • Government News
      GreenbrierJournal

      Greenbrier County Commission Holds Regular Meeting: Budget Revisions, Project Approvals, and Community Support Highlighted

      GreenbrierJournal

      The Greenbrier County Commission held its regular meeting on September 24, 2024, with several key topics and community initiatives discussed. Commissioners joined both virtually and in-person, with the meeting starting with a prelude and pledge of allegiance led by Commissioner Tincher and Cara Denz, respectively.
      The commission began by approving the minutes from the September 10, 2024 meeting and moved forward with the review of final settlements for 12 estates. These were unanimously approved.
      Following estate approvals, budget revisions were presented by Robin Loudermilk. These included six notable revisions, such as increases in funds for deputy sheriff uniforms, building maintenance, home confinement fringe benefits, law enforcement capital outlay, and overtime reimbursement. An additional increase was noted for the law enforcement FICA and retirement accounts, funded by the Cleveland Browns football company. All revisions were approved unanimously.
      The commission approved an Arts and Recreation transfer of $15,950 for the Bluegrass Festival under the River. Cara Denz, President and CEO of the Greenbrier County Convention and Visitors Bureau, delivered an annual report, highlighting a successful year for tourism in the county. She announced the rebranding of the bureau as "Experience Greenbrier Valley" to better market the region.
      Denz reported record-breaking tourism numbers for West Virginia in 2023, including 75 million visitors and $8.7 billion in economic impact. Greenbrier County alone saw $399.4 million in direct visitor spending and contributed 3,562 jobs to the local economy. Denz also discussed new initiatives like tracking advertising effectiveness through a partnership with Epsilon, which demonstrated a substantial return on investment for the county.
      Matt Ford from E.L. Robinson Engineering presented a report on the Meadow River Rail Trail project, emphasizing the significance of the upcoming Phase Three. The commission approved awarding the construction bid to Lynch Construction for $2.13 million. Phase Three will extend the trail to Rainelle, with groundbreaking planned for November 1, 2024. The project is supported by the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection and the Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization program.
      The commission approved letters of support for several grant applications. Melissa O’Brien from CityNet presented a request for a letter supporting the West Virginia Broadband Equity Access and Deployment Program, aiming to expand coverage to over 6,000 underserved addresses in Greenbrier County.
      Letters of support were also approved for two recovery housing organizations: God’s Way Home and SEED Sower, Inc. Both organizations seek funding from the West Virginia First Foundation to expand their recovery housing and services in the county. God’s Way Home requested $210,000 for operations and transportation needs, while SEED Sower, Inc. requested $325,000 for a new facility and $225,000 for workforce and transportation projects.
      The commission approved a letter of support for the Rainelle Volunteer Fire Department’s fire truck lease-purchase agreement, emphasizing the department’s independent nature and lack of financial obligation to the county.
      A change to the organizational chart for the 911 Communication Center and Greenbrier County Homeland Security was approved, consolidating two part-time positions into one full-time role.
      The commission confirmed the separations of employment for Irish Jean Burdette from the Greenbrier County Assessor’s Office and Kelly Bond from the Prosecutor’s Office.
      The meeting concluded with the commissioners expressing gratitude to the county’s first responders for their recent efforts. The next regular commission meeting is scheduled for October 10, 2024, at 10 a.m., with public hearings for cable television franchise renewal also on the agenda.
      The Greenbrier County Commission remains committed to supporting local initiatives, enhancing public services, and promoting community growth through strategic investments and collaborative efforts.

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    • Entertainment News
      GreenbrierJournal

      Healing Appalachia Premieres “Hazard” Movie Trailer, Shines Light on Opioid Epidemic

      GreenbrierJournal

      Healing Appalachia, a concert and awareness event dedicated to combating the opioid crisis, took on an even deeper sense of purpose this year with the debut of the powerful trailer for the upcoming film “Hazard.” Set to release in theaters on January 10th, the movie offers an unflinching look at the devastating impact of opioid addiction in Appalachia.
      The film, starring Sophie Bacon, the daughter of Kevin Bacon, is the result of years of research and storytelling rooted in the harsh realities faced by those struggling with addiction in the region. The trailer showcased haunting scenes of life in the grip of addiction, from “dope hotels” to remote hollers, emphasizing the brutal consequences of the crisis that has torn apart countless families and communities.
      “Hazard” doesn’t shy away from showing the stark reality of drug use and its effects, with scenes depicting the raw and painful experiences of those caught in the cycle of addiction. The film aims to shed light on the issue and inspire meaningful conversation and action, making its debut at Healing Appalachia a fitting choice.
      The audience at Healing Appalachia, many of whom have been personally affected by the epidemic, watched in silence as the trailer played. The message was clear: this is not just a film, but a call to confront the ongoing crisis head-on. The movie seeks to support organizations working to provide help and healing to those affected, aligning perfectly with the mission of the event.
      After the trailer, the atmosphere shifted to one of hope and determination as the night continued with musical performances, underscoring the community's resilience and commitment to overcoming the challenges posed by addiction.
      “Hazard” is expected to be a significant voice in the conversation about the opioid crisis, offering a raw, authentic portrayal that resonates deeply with those who have lived through it. For more information on the film and its release, visit HazardTheMovie.com.
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    • Local News
      GreenbrierJournal

      Richard Green Shares His Story of Redemption and Recovery at Healing Appalachia

      GreenbrierJournal

      At this year’s Healing Appalachia event, Richard Green of God’s Way Home delivered a powerful and heartfelt testimony that captivated the audience. Green, a man who has battled addiction and found redemption through faith, shared his journey from a life of chaos and substance abuse to becoming a beacon of hope and support for others in recovery.
      “How's everybody doing out there?” Green began, receiving a chorus of cheers from the crowd. “God is really, really, really, really... Got a lot of recovery, a lot of good needs going on around here.” Green spoke passionately about his work at God’s Way Home, a faith-based sober living program for men in Rainelle, West Virginia. The program, which offers 24 beds, provides a structured environment for men seeking recovery from addiction.
      Green’s story is one of transformation. “I got saved by Jesus Christ about nine years ago in 2015,” he shared. “I was addicted to just about anything you can name. But by the grace of God and the blood of Jesus Christ, I was saved and He continued to transform my life.” Green’s sincerity and conviction resonated deeply with the audience as he recounted his struggles and ultimate surrender to faith.
      Originally from Maryland, Green described a turbulent youth marked by addiction from the age of 11. “I got hooked on drugs early, and from age 11 to 24, I spent all those years in madness and chaos. Only by the grace of God do I stand here before you today.” His journey through multiple treatment centers finally led him to South Florida in 2015, where he encountered the gospel message that changed his life.
      “I heard about Jesus loving us and caring for us,” Green recalled. “I didn’t believe in God at that time. I didn’t want to hear anything about it. But that night, I received Jesus as my Lord and Savior, and the chains I carried for so many years fell to the ground. I had peace and joy in my life that I could never have imagined.”
      Since his conversion, Green has dedicated his life to helping others find the same freedom and peace he discovered. After graduating from Bible college, he began working full-time with God’s Way Home, where he now mentors men struggling with substance abuse, guiding them toward a life of faith and recovery.
      Green’s story is not just about overcoming addiction but about embracing a new way of life. He expressed his gratitude for the support of his wife and the mentors who have helped him along his journey. “Today, I’m a married man, blessed with a beautiful wife, and I get to live a life I would have never had without God’s grace. I’m very, very thankful for the opportunity to share this with y’all.”
      In his closing remarks, Green encouraged those struggling with addiction to seek help and reminded the audience that faith and redemption are available to all. “You don’t need to be in a church or with a pastor to receive Jesus. He can meet you right where you are, in your mess, just like He did for me.”
      God’s Way Home Inc., located at 477 Main Street, Rainelle, WV, is a nonprofit organization committed to helping men overcome addiction through faith-based programs and community support. For more information, you can contact them at (304) 646-6655 or visit their Facebook page.
      Green’s testimony at Healing Appalachia was a reminder of the transformative power of faith and the resilience of the human spirit. His journey from addiction to advocacy serves as an inspiration to all who are fighting their own battles.
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